BETHLEHEM / PNN /

The Holy Land Trust announced that it is preparing to host a historic and symbolic event that will see the Flame of Hope brought from Hiroshima, Japan, to Bethlehem — to be installed permanently at the birthplace of Jesus.

The announcement came following the visit of the Director of the Japanese organisation Earth Caravan, the Holy Land Trust’s international partner, to Palestine last week.

Born from the tragedy of Hiroshima, the flame carries a universal message that humanity must choose peace over destruction. “At a time when Gaza faces unbearable suffering and Palestinians continue to live under oppression, this message is more urgent than ever,” the organisation said in a statement.

During the visit, representatives of the Holy Land Trust met with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Bethlehem, the Deputy Governor, and the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs, to coordinate logistical preparations for welcoming the flame.

According to the organisers, the Flame of Hope will serve as a light calling for an end to the genocide in Gaza, freedom and dignity for the Palestinian people, and an end to violence and destruction everywhere — connecting Palestine with the world in a shared stand for humanity.

“From Hiroshima to Bethlehem, may this eternal flame shine as a beacon of hope, justice, and peace for all people,” the Holy Land Trust added.